Christian organizations serving vulnerable children and families carry an enormous responsibility.
Leaders are asked to make complex decisions every day — often with limited time, limited resources and limited clarity about what changes will have the greatest impact for children and families.
To better support these leaders, the CAFO Research Center is excited to introduce the Core Elements CareIndex, formerly known as the Core Elements Self-Assessment.
Designed specifically for senior leaders and program leaders, CareIndex provides a structured, evidence-informed view of organizational practices across 21 key areas of care and nonprofit performance. Through a comprehensive survey and a personalized report, leaders receive actionable insights and recommendations directly tied to the Core Elements learning program.
“While the name has changed, the heart of the tool remains the same,” said Dr. Nicole Wilke, director of the CAFO Research Center. “CareIndex is designed to help leaders move from uncertainty to clarity, so they can have a clear picture of where their organization is strongest and where focused growth could lead to even better outcomes for children and families.”
What is the Core Elements CareIndex?
Developed by the CAFO Research Center in collaboration with more than 40 NGO leaders and practitioners, the Core Elements program combines evidence-informed practice, practical tools and biblically grounded training to equip organizations serving vulnerable children and families around the world.
“The CareIndex is the best starting point for organizations interested in improving care for vulnerable children and families,” Wilke said. “It’s like getting a roadmap to better care.”
Upon completion of the CareIndex, leaders receive a detailed report highlighting organizational strengths, priority areas for improvement and recommendations for relevant Core Elements courses and resources. Organizations are encouraged to complete the CareIndex annually in order to track growth, measure progress and continue strengthening care practices over time.
“CareIndex is designed for internal learning and growth. Results are confidential and not intended for comparison among organizations,” Wilke added. The CareIndex is valued at $599 but offered free of charge to CAFO member organizations, networks and partners. Core Elements courses can help equip organizations of all budgets and sizes, but if course costs are prohibitive, learning grants are available to qualified applicants.
“We’d love to see every organization connected to CAFO and many more take the CareIndex to explore areas of strength and growth this year,” Wilke said.
Start with the Core Elements CareIndex
If you are a senior leader or program leader within a Christian organization serving vulnerable children and families, the CareIndex is designed for you. Start with the CareIndex today and gain the clarity needed to strengthen care and guide your organization’s next steps.
